What to Expect at a South Asian Wedding: A Complete Guide for Guests

Have you been invited to a Shaadi—South Asian Wedding—but don't know what to expect? Don’t worry, we’ll get you up to speed and have you ready to bhangra with the bride and groom!

The typical Shaadi lasts 3 to 5 days, packed with vibrant traditions designed to introduce the families of the bride and groom, celebrate their union, and enjoy festivities. While these events are joyous and exciting, they can also differ depending on the family's region or cultural background. For instance, South Indian weddings have a different flavor compared to Punjabi or Bengali celebrations. But for this article, we'll focus on some of the most common Hindu wedding customs that you're likely to experience.

What Should You Wear?

Unlike Western weddings, South Asian destination weddings are all about color. Vibrant hues like gold, green, and royal blue are common. But whatever you do, avoid red, as this is traditionally the bride's color. If you’re planning to attend a multi-day wedding, you might want to invest in traditional South Asian attire like sherwani (for men) or lehenga (for women). Another important tip: bring a head covering, especially for the ceremony. Everyone, regardless of gender, is expected to cover their heads during the formal wedding rituals.

What Should You Bring as a Gift?

Weddings are occasions for generosity, and in South Asian weddings, it’s customary to give money as a gift. If you're unsure about the amount, here’s a tip—whatever sum you give, end it with the number '1'. Instead of $100, give $101. This symbolizes good fortune for the couple.

What Happens Over 3 to 5 Days?

A typical Hindu wedding celebration spans three to five days. Each day has special events and ceremonies designed to honor the couple and their families. While every wedding can vary slightly based on the region, religion, or family preferences, here are the most common traditions you’ll likely experience.

Day 1: Haldi/Pithi Ceremony

The Haldi or Pithi ceremony is a purification ritual. During this event, a turmeric-based paste is applied to the bride and groom by their family members. This is said to cleanse, beautify, and bring good luck. The yellow color of the turmeric is believed to have auspicious properties, symbolizing prosperity.

Day 2: Sangeet

The Sangeet is the pre-wedding musical celebration. Traditionally, it was an event only for women, but today men often participate as well. This lively occasion involves singing, dancing, and informal introductions between the families. It's a time for the couple's families to bond over music and celebration. Expect lots of dancing and laughter during this event!

Day 3: Mehndi/Mehendi

The Mehndi ceremony, or henna party, is a deeply significant tradition, especially for the bride. Henna is applied to her hands and feet, and the intricate designs symbolize joy, beauty, and spiritual awakening. It’s said that the darker the henna color, the more successful the bride’s marriage will be. Female friends and family members also get their own henna tattoos as a part of the celebration. This ceremony is filled with fun and laughter, and it often continues late into the night.

Day 4: Baraat

The Baraat is the groom’s grand entrance to the wedding venue. Imagine the groom arriving in style—sometimes on horseback, or even an elephant or luxury car—accompanied by music and dance. Friends and family dance joyfully in front of the groom’s procession as they make their way to the wedding venue. It’s a lively and energetic celebration that symbolizes the groom’s journey to his bride.

The Wedding Ceremony

On the third or fourth day, the actual wedding ceremony takes place. Most destination Hindu wedding ceremonies include an outdoor altar to accommodate the sacred fire rituals. The ceremony itself can last between one to two hours, depending on the couple's preferences and the specific rituals involved. One of the most important moments is the Saptapadi, where the bride and groom take seven sacred steps around the fire to signify their bond and make their vows.

The Reception

The reception is the ultimate celebration, filled with music, dancing, and elaborate meals. Often, these events are lavish, with lots of Bollywood-style entertainment. The couple’s families and friends perform dances, speeches are made, and a sense of unity fills the air. The bride and groom are treated like royalty, and guests will enjoy a long night of celebrations.

Where to Attend South Asian Weddings

If you're looking for the perfect destination to attend or host a South Asian wedding, several top resorts cater specifically to the unique traditions and celebrations of these multi-day events. Many resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean offer dedicated South Asian wedding packages, ensuring every cultural and ceremonial detail is taken care of.

• Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa: Located in the Riviera Maya, this resort offers beautiful beachfront settings, with specialized services for South Asian weddings. Whether it's the Mehndi or the Sangeet, their team will ensure the day is filled with color and tradition. Read more about Dreams Tulum.
• Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa: Known for its luxurious atmosphere and cultural sensitivity, this resort offers customizable South Asian wedding packages that cover everything from traditional attire to the Mandap setup. Learn more about Dreams Riviera Cancun.
• Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun: Ideal for couples looking to combine tradition with luxury, Now Sapphire provides exceptional service and attention to detail for South Asian weddings. Find out more about Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun.
• Barceló Maya Palace: This beachfront resort is perfect for an elaborate South Asian wedding, offering stunning venues and experienced coordinators familiar with the traditions of Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim weddings. Check out Barceló Maya Palace.
• Barceló Maya Beach Resort: With its large event spaces and breathtaking beach views, this resort is an excellent choice for a destination wedding that celebrates South Asian customs and rituals. Learn more about Barceló Maya Beach Resort.
• Moon Palace Cancun: Known for its expansive grounds and all-inclusive luxury, Moon Palace Cancun provides tailored South Asian wedding packages that incorporate every traditional element, from the Baraat to the Mandap. Whether it's a multi-day celebration or a single-day event, Moon Palace delivers an unforgettable experience. Read more about Moon Palace Cancun.

With vibrant colors, rich traditions, and joyful celebrations, South Asian weddings are a truly magical experience. So, gear up, wear your best outfit, and prepare to enjoy a celebration filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories!